7 tips for finding the best divorce attorney
Going through a divorce is not easy, but sound legal advice can make the process much less challenging. This is why it is important to hire a good divorce attorney who can offer the right guidance, expertise, and assistance. The lawyer one chooses also needs to have one’s best interests at heart to help them get the outcome they want. To find such an attorney, one may have to plan ahead and do their research.
1. Determine requirements
Before one starts looking for a divorce attorney, one should assess their own requirements. For starters, one should list the things they need the attorney to handle, like splitting assets and real estate and custody arrangements. Using the list, one can begin looking for lawyers with expertise in handling these issues. For instance, for child custody arrangements, one would have to look for a lawyer with expertise in family law.
2. Set a budget
Lawyers can be quite expensive, especially those who are considered the best in their field. So before narrowing down a divorce attorney, one should set a reasonable budget. One can look up average legal fees online and the fee structure of divorce attorneys to set the budget. Looking up these details can also help one avoid overspending on legal representation and steer clear of unwanted surprises later on.
3. Choose the type and process of divorce
When filing for divorce, one must have a clear understanding of different divorce processes. Divorces are broadly categorized into fault divorces and no-fault divorces. The former means that either of the spouses was at some fault that led to one seeking the dissolution of the marriage. No-fault divorces are exactly as the name suggests, meaning neither partner was at fault, and there are just irreconcilable differences leading to separation. Based on the type, the divorce process is determined.
Processes can be litigated, mediated, or collaborative. The mediated process requires the spouses to talk to mediators, who can help them come to a resolution and avoid a divorce. The collaborative divorce process requires attorneys for both parties, but it does not require anyone to appear before a judge. In that process, the attorneys themselves can work out a settlement. Finally, the litigated divorce process is one where both parties need to present their case in court in front of a judge. If there are conflicts with issues such as child custody or asset splitting, this type of process will be followed.
So, when choosing a divorce attorney, one must look for a professional who has some experience in handling the specific type of divorce and the divorce process one wants to pursue.
4. Seek recommendations
After assessing requirements and setting a budget, one can begin looking for lawyers who would have the necessary experience. The process can begin with recommendations from friends and family members who have hired a divorce lawyer before or know of one. Friends and family can offer relevant insights like how the lawyer works, their expertise, and the kind of assistance one can expect. Through such recommendations, one may also be able to get a fee estimate.
5. Utilize online resources
One can always turn to the internet to find top-rated lawyers. An advantage of searching for attorneys online is that one can also find reviews left by their previous clients. These reviews can help one understand what to expect from the lawyer they are considering. One can also find top law firms near them and check out divorce lawyers on each firm’s website. Such websites often mention the lawyer’s experience and qualifications, making it easier to narrow down options.
6. Consult multiple lawyers
To choose the ideal divorce attorney, one should speak with at least three lawyers. This will allow one to compare lawyers, their fees, services, and experience. Then, one may find it easier to see who would be a better lawyer for them. During the initial consultation, it is also important for one to gauge other aspects, such as the lawyer’s communication skills. For instance, the lawyers should be able to address queries and seem willing to help. The lawyer should also allow one to discuss their concerns without interrupting them or dismissing them. Here, it is also crucial to keep an eye out for red flags like apathy or lack of interest and condescending tone and avoid lawyers who show any of these signs. Speaking to multiple attorneys allows one to compare the interpersonal skills of each professional and then choose a lawyer who makes one feel most at ease.
7. Ask questions
When consulting divorce attorneys, one must be ready with a list of questions that will help them understand what to expect and also help them choose the right lawyer. The right questions are ones that help one learn about the lawyer’s approach and experience. For instance, one can ask the lawyer how long they have been practicing law and how many years have they been working as a divorce lawyer. One can also ask the lawyer how they approach a divorce case. If one is planning for a litigated divorce, one can check with the lawyer about what happens when the case is presented in court.